SDOT crews recently installed some very unusual pedestrian lights on the south side of – and underneath – the Columbia Street on-ramp to the south-bound lanes of the Alaskan Way Viaduct. As you approach the intersection you notice a white glow coming from below the ramp, within feet of the sidewalk and extending higher and higher as the ramp climbs to the west. This long strip of LEDs is supplemented by three strands of closely spaced white bulbs strung overhead to the building just to the south.
Now, here’s the kicker. Underneath the on ramp between First Avenue and Post Alley you’ll find three long strips of lights affixed to the beams that support the ramp. All that can be said is that the space is no longer dark or dingy. Or dull for that matter.
So, the next time you’re in the area, swing down to Post Alley and Columbia Street to see what is killing off our gloomy corners.
